TxDOT I-27 bridge maintenance project begins this week

Monday

May 13, 2013 at 4:18 PM

Adam D. Young

Drivers on portions of Interstate 27 in northern Lubbock County over the next few months can expect traffic to be reduced to one-lane and other main lane closures on several bridges as work begins this week to upgrade bridges.

The construction is part of a $209,630 routine maintenance project organized by the Texas Department of Transportation, said Dianah Ascencio, a spokeswoman for TxDOT in Lubbock.

Much of the work will be performed overnight, though some will affect traffic flow during day hours, Will Barnett, TxDOT's Lubbock area engineer, said in a statement.

"The lane closures will give work crews the space needed to make repairs to bridge joints on several structures along I-27 through Lubbock County," he said. "Motorists can anticipate various nighttime I-27 lane closures, from the 82nd Street to FM 2641, inside the Lubbock city limits, and daytime closures from Regis Street to FM 597 in Abernathy."

The project will address what Ascencio called routine wear and tear and weathering on bridge structures, adding there are no concerns about the bridges' structural integrity.

"Work to replace the bridge joints will require the pavement to be removed and repaved," she said.

Motorists are urged to drive with caution through the work zones, be on the lookout for workers and avoid distractions for their own safety and the safety of the workers, Ascencio said.

Message boards will be placed to advise motorists of the various lane closures, Barnett said.

Traffic fines will double in the work zones.

Winding Road Construction, of Bigfork, Minn., is the project contractor. Work on the bridges is scheduled for completion by September.

adam.young@lubbockonline.com

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